Dealing with Night Time Fears Through Play

One of my boys was blessed with my very over active imagination, which can be fun during the day, but not so much at night.

We’ve battled our nighttime monsters in different ways. We talk about what good dreams he wants to have that night – where he wants to go, what he wants to do etc. I’ve also given him an old remote control so if he wakes up from a bad dream he can change his dream channel.

Another way to battle those monsters is by melting them!

This activity is fun whether or not you’re battling dreams. All you need is washable markers, paper, and a squirt bottle.

Have your kids draw as many monsters as they want on sheets of paper. You could also have them work together on one BIG monster on a paper roll.

Set up the monsters outside (I taped them to the wall) and squirt away.

The washable markers will drip and melt off the page taking the monster with it. Be prepared to repeat.

Doesn’t Allison come up with the best ideas? Along with gawking at her lovely photos, make sure to actually read this post. She has some pretty clever monster-fighting ideas – the remote is totally inspired. For another great activity from Allison, check out her free printable of the NATO Phonetic Alphabet (you know alpha, bravo, charlie – such fun for little ones to learn).

P.S. Looking for more ways to simplify and save time so you can connect with your family? Follow these 3 steps: